Conjunctivitis Remedies

Conjunctivitis refers to the common eye infection caused due to inflammation of the conjunctiva - a tissue that lines the white of the eye and the inner side of the eyelids. As a result of this infection the eye turns red. Hence conjunctivitis is also known as pink eye. Conjunctivitis is most commonly caused by bacteria and viruses and is a highly contagious infection. This eye infection can also be caused by STDs, allergies or chemicals and irritants.

Symptoms of Conjunctivitis:

• Redness of the eye
• Itchy eyes
• Blurred vision
• Increased amount of tear production
• Yellow discharge from the eyes that forms a crust over the eyelashes (if the infection is caused by bacteria)
• Burning sensation in the eye (in case conjunctivitis is caused by chemicals and irritants)
• Increased sensitivity to light

Conjunctivitis Remedies:

Using eye washes and compresses can relieve many of the symptoms of pink eye. Here are some simple pink eye home remedies:

• Aromatherapy oils can offer some simple remedies for conjunctivitis. Using a compress made by adding a few drops of chamomile oil, rose oil, or lavender oil can bring can bring considerable relief to the eyes.
• Aloe vera juice can be used as an eyewash. Alternatively, dipping a piece of cloth in aloe vera juice and placing it over the eye is also effective in curing the eye problem.
• A soothing eyewash can be made by mixing ¼ teaspoon of baking soda in ½ cup of water.
• Elderberry blossom tea or water in which fennel seeds have been boiled make an effective eye wash.
• Blend a handful of cilantro leaves with ½ a cup of water. Strain out the juice. Apply the pulp over closed eyelids.
• Chamomile tea is one of the most effective conjunctivitis natural remedies. Just put some cool and moist chamomile tea bags over closed eyes for 10 minutes. This works very well to reduce the redness of the eyes. This treatment should be repeated every couple of hours.
• Add a handful of dried coriander to 60 ml of water. Using this infusion to wash the infected eyes reduces the inflammation as well as the burning sensation.
• A drop or two of honey can be put directly in the eyes or can be used as an eyewash. To make an eyewash, put 3 tablespoons of honey in two cups of boiling water. Stir well and let it cool. Use this solution as an eyewash several times throughout the day.
• Grate potato or make a poultice from it and put it over the eyes for 15 minutes. This should be done for 3 successive nights to reduce inflammation.
• Putting a moist bag of eyebright tea over the eyes soothes itchy eyes. The flavonoids present in tea can effectively fight bacterial and viral eye infections.
• Applying cold bread over closed eyes is an effective home remedy for conjunctivitis that reduces itching and inflammation of eye.

Besides external treatment of the eyes, improving one's diet also works in curing pink eye. Mix 200 ml of spinach juice with 300 ml of carrot juice. Drinking this mixture for 10 days will expedite the healing process. Eating food rich in vitamin A and B2 is recommended for those suffering from conjunctivitis. This includes whole milk, almonds, tomatoes, butter, curd, and carrots to name a few. Increase the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables. Smoking and consumption of alcohol should also be restricted during this time.

Despite the itching try not to rub the eyes as this will only aggravate the infection. Use a clean towel or handkerchief to wipe the eyes. Conjunctivitis is a highly contagious infection. Be careful of not leaving your towel around. Change your towel or handkerchief frequently and clean them every time you take a new one. Proper eye care goes a long way in preventing any eye infection. Conjunctivitis remedies also work better if cleanliness and hygiene is maintained.